TRENTON – The Department of Law & Public Safetytoday released the 2011 Uniform Crime Report (UCR) which shows the overall crime rate in New Jersey increased three percent compared to the previous year. Violent crime remained unchanged in 2011, compared to 2010.

Murder edged up less than two percent from 372 reported incidents to 380. Rape was virtually unchanged from 985 to 991. Robberies increased three percent from 11,859 to 12,216 and aggravated assaults decreased three percent from 13,958 to 13,586.

“The latest crime data shows a slight increase in the overall crime rate in New Jersey,” said Attorney General Chiesa. “Although the factors that influence crime trends are complex and interwoven, we remain committed to working harder and smarter to combat crime and protect New Jersey citizens during what remains a tough economic time for much of our state and our nation.”

The annual UCR, prepared by the State Police Uniform Crime Reporting Unit, measures offenses committed during the period spanning from January 1, 2011, through December 31, 2011. The report contains data on the rate of reported Index Crimes – offenses which fall into seven crime categories, including the four violent index crimes of murder, rape, robbery and aggravated assault, and three nonviolent index crimes of burglary, larceny and motor vehicle theft. The UCR also contains separate statistical reports on bias crimes, carjacking and domestic violence.